During the Cal State Fullerton College Awards Program on April 21, the following individuals received the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. The award recognizes staff, faculty, or teams who have taken steps to make CSUF a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive campus community.

• Patricia Literte, Associate Professor of Sociology (Academic Affairs) and Program Director, Center for Partnerships in Education (Student Affairs)
• Monique Posadas, Auxiliary Services Corp., Center for Educational Partnerships
• Rosie Guillon, Auxiliary Services Corp., Center for Educational Partnerships

The McNair Scholars program offers preparation for graduate studies, and in particular for the doctorate. curriculum preparation services, to students from low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented backgrounds. The program was created to honor Ronald E. McNair, Challenger astronaut and Ph.D. physicist. The MIT program is federally funded by the US Department of Education.

Since 2010, 15% of CSUF McNair Scholars, all of whom are first-generation, low-income, and/or underrepresented, have earned their Ph.D. This rate is significantly higher than the rate of obtaining a doctorate for the general population, which is approximately 4.5% (US Census, 2018). The rate of Americans from first-generation, low-income, and/or underrepresented backgrounds earning a doctorate is even lower.

Preparation for the doctorate. programs is a rigorous and stressful experience for even the most privileged students. It’s even harder for McNair Scholars, who often face “impostor syndrome,” economic instability, family demands and stressors, and mental health issues, as they try to develop research skills and knowledge of university policies necessary for success in doctoral programs. . McNair Fellows are encouraged to “lean into learning” and continually build on their existing knowledge and skills.

CSUF McNair Scholars staff have raised awareness of diversity and inclusion by creating a transformational Titan experience, which supports student success at CSUF and post-baccalaureate level.

All CSUF McNair Scholars receive biweekly mentorship, writing tutoring, and seminars, which focus on academic skills development, professional development, and preparation for graduate school.